Pacific Parakeet Psittacara strenuus
Taxonomy
Scientific name:
Psittacara strenuus
Family:
Psittacidae
Genus:
Psittacara
Species:
Strenuus
Common names:
Pacific parakeet
Biology
Morphology:
The pacific parakeet averages 33 cm in length, including their long tail. Their plumage is principally olive green, becoming slightly more yellowish on the underparts, and over the underwing and undertail. A few flecks of red feathers are irregularly scattered over the head and neck. The periophthalmic (eye) rings are reddish-grey and the irises are orange-red. They have a yellowish / horn-colored beak with blackish markings to both sides of the tip.
Reproduction:
Pacific parakeet pairs usually find termite mounds, tree trunks or palm tree cavities to nest in. They will also nest colonially on crevices in cliff faces. They lay 3 to 5 eggs at the beginning of spring.
Diet:
They eat mainly wild fruits, leaf buds and tree seeds.
Ecology
Range:
From central southeast Mexico to the east of Nicaragua.
Habitat:
Dry forest and surrounding wetlands are main sites for habitat, but current sightings include cities and near crop fields.
Threats
Main threat is deforestation and hunting due to liking corn, orange and banana crops.
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.